KUWAIT CITY – Clear guidelines have been outlined for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Kuwait who are planning to undergo voluntary repatriation, whether for final exit or temporary leave with plans to return.
The updated requirements apply to both Visa 18 (private sector workers) and Visa 20 (domestic workers), with specific documents needed depending on the worker’s intention to return to Kuwait or not.
VISA 20
❌ NOT COMING BACK TO KUWAIT
- Original Passport – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ handwritten: 2 black and white)
- Cancel Visa – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ handwritten: 2 black and white)
- 2×2 picture with white background – 1
- Blue ballpen
✅ WILL COME BACK TO KUWAIT
- Original Passport – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ 2 black and white)
- Absence Permit (Eden Qiyad – Sahel of Employer) – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ 2 black and white)
- 2×2 picture with white background – 1
- Original Civil ID – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ 2 black and white)
- Blue ballpen
VISA 18
❌ NOT COMING BACK TO KUWAIT
- Original Passport – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ 2 black and white)
- Cancel Visa – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ 2 black and white)
- 2×2 picture with white background – 1
- Blue ballpen
✅ WILL COME BACK TO KUWAIT
- Original Passport – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ 2 black and white)
- Exit Permit – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ 2 black and white)
- 2×2 picture with white background – 1
- Original Civil ID – with 2 pieces colored photocopy (+ 2 black and white)
- Blue ballpen
Key Reminder for OFWs
Officials highlighted that the most common issue encountered during processing is the absence of the correct permit:
- Visa 18 workers must secure an Exit Permit
- Visa 20 workers must secure an Absence Permit from their employer
Failure to present these documents may result in processing delays or denial of exit clearance.
📌 Advisory
OFWs are advised to prepare all required documents in advance and verify their status with their employer or agency before proceeding with repatriation to avoid complications.
OFWs who have already decided to proceed with voluntary repatriation are advised to personally visit the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait to process their documents.
